Johnson’s double-double, solid shooting in OT helps Fairfield hold off Rider 79-75

Fairfield outlasts Rider 79-75 in OT

LAWRENCEVILLE, N.J. — Anthony Johnson recorded a double-double, scoring 27 points and grabbing 14 boards, to lead Fairfield over Rider 79-75 in overtime on Friday night.

Derek Needham added 20 points as the only other scorer in double figures for the Stags (17-8, 10-5 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference), who avenged an 88-80 home loss to Rider on Jan. 30.

Mike Evanovich scored half of his six points on the first basket of overtime, knocking down a 3-pointer for a 74-71 lead the Stags wouldn’t relinquish. The Stags scored the rest of their five points in overtime at the free throw line.

Johnson had a chance to win it for the Stags in regulation, but split his free throws for a 71-69 lead with 10 seconds left. Justin Robinson nailed a jumper 6 seconds later for Rider to send the contest into OT.

Ryan Thompson scored 18 points to lead the Broncs (14-13, 7-8).